Wig and Makeup Artist
CATEGORY: Other
LA Opera
Los Angeles, CA
US
Job Details
DESCRIPTION
LA Opera is looking for a temporary Wig & Makeup Artist to join our Wig & Makeup team. The anticipated employment period is April 13 through May 31, 2026. For this role, we are seeking individuals with theatrical experience in wig ventilation, wig construction, makeup application, and hairstyling for stage productions.
This is a temporary full-time position based out of the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in downtown Los Angeles. The schedule includes daytime shop work as well as running crew work for evening and weekend rehearsals and performances of The Magic Flute.
This position is represented by Local 706, IATSE, and the terms and conditions of employment are governed by the collective bargaining agreement between Local 706 and LA Opera. The hourly base rate of pay for this position is $38.29.
Key responsibilities include the following:
- Ventilating wigs and facial hair, including knotting both wig foundations and hairlines
- Executing wig ventilation techniques, including double knotting and multiple knot types (excluding split knotting)
- Assisting with basic wig construction and repair using a variety of lace foundations
- Styling wigs and natural hair for rehearsals and performances
- Applying stage makeup (beauty and character) for performers as required
- Preparing performers’ hair for wig application and securing wigs and/or facial hair
- Maintaining, repairing, and organizing wigs during the rehearsal and performance period
- Serving as part of the backstage running crew for The Magic Flute, supporting wig and makeup looks, quick changes during performances
- Maintaining cleanliness, sanitation, and organization within the Wig & Makeup workspace
- Collaborating with members of the Costume Department, Stage Management, and performers to support production needs
- Other related duties as assigned
Who we’re looking for:
Successful candidates will have:
- Professional experience in wigs, hair, and makeup for live theatrical or opera productions
- Strong attention to detail and craftsmanship in wig making, repair and maintenance
- Proficiency in wig ventilation, including knotting foundations and hairlines
- Skill in multiple knot types used in wig ventilation, including double knotting
- Strong knowledge of basic wig construction techniques utilizing a variety of lace foundations
- Experience as a makeup artist and hairstylist for theatrical stage performance
- Ability to prepare performers’ hair and apply wigs and/or facial hair for stage
- Experience running shows as part of a backstage crew
- Ability to work efficiently under production deadlines and performance schedules
- Strong collaboration and communication skills when working with performers and production teams
- Flexibility for evening and weekend rehearsals and performances
We are committed to an inclusive, equitable workplace, and we are seeking a Wig & Makeup Artist who champions and demonstrates this commitment.
To apply
Qualified applicants are encouraged to submit an application, along with photo/video samples of their work here. Applications received by March 20 will receive full consideration.
Individuals of identities that are underrepresented in the field of Wigs, Hair, and Makeup are especially encouraged to apply.
About LA Opera
LA Opera (LAO) is a mission-driven, non-profit organization that plays a significant role in the cultural life of Southern California. Hundreds of LAO employees and artists help bring to life world-class opera that preserves, promotes, and advances the art form while embodying the diversity, pioneering spirit and artistic sensibility unique to Los Angeles.
Our productions are experienced by more than 100,000 audience members each year at our home at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in downtown Los Angeles. We reach many more through our community and school programs, Off Grand performances in venues across Los Angeles, and On Now digital content.
LA Opera is an equal opportunity employer, and we do not discriminate against applicants on the basis of any legally protected categories.
DURATION
Apr 13, 2026 -
SALARY
$38.29 – $38.29 per hour
UNION
Local 706, IATSE